Posture and movement

We often think that our thoughts and attitudes precede how we use
and move our bodies. In fact NLP shows us it is the other way round.
Try saying with meaning "I love you" through gritted teeth,
or "I hate you" while wearing a big grin.

The joy of this is that when we consciously move and alter our
body's posture this has a positive effect on our mental capabilities.
Consciously sitting up straight in meetings helps our alertness
and attention. Standing with an erect posture, relaxed knees (not
locked) and feet slightly apart under our hips brings a feeling
of being grounded and also flexible, able to deal with anything.

Neurophysiologists are identifying that taking in new ideas, assimilating
them and integrating them into our lives is a whole body activity,
not just a brain activity. Passively sitting listening to a colleague
talk through a project, a business issue or a new idea is not the
best way to ensure that information and learning is imparted, shared,
improved and actioned.

Movement is key, if the brain is to be fully engaged. For example,
if there are just two or three of you talking through an idea, try
walking round the block while you discuss it to help get the brain
cells firing and see how much more easily ideas are developed.

Presenting to a large audience or making a sales pitch, give everyone
something simple to handle during the discussion. Far from being
distracting, while their hands are engaged more of the brain kicks
in and pays attention to what is being said.

"Brain
Gym® " is a series of simple but powerful movements
and exercises that stimulates right and left brain activity, helps
concentration, memory, organising, listening and more. When flagging
at work, a few minutes of Brain GymŪ brings us back to a more energetic
and effective state.